On-Vehicle Inspection Of Expansion Valve

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Toyota Prius. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Check quantity of gas during refrigeration cycle .
Set on manifold gauge set . See SET ON MANIFOLD GAUGE SET .
Run engine :
1. MAX, switch ON.
2. Blower speed control dial at HI.
3. Temperature control dial at MAX. COOL.
4. Run the engine at 1,500 rpm for at least 5 minutes.
  Then check that the high pressure reading is 1.37 - 1.57 MPa (14 - 16 kgf/cm2, 199 - 288 psi).
Check expansion valve.
If the expansion valve is faulty, the low pressure reading will drop to 0 kPa (0 kgf/cm2, 0 psi).